Name: Florida Institute of Technology Botanical Garden
Rating: 3.7

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Features Birding · River/Creek · Views

This area is open Monday–Sunday, sunrise to sunset.

Overview

Come experience a peaceful jungle sanctuary hidden in a swiftly growing Florida urban setting. Streams flow from Crane Creek as the trails wind throughout the garden that is filled with over 200 palms and a bounty of other florae. There are plenty of benches donated by friends of the garden to take in the beauty.

Need to Know

FIT offers guided group tours of the Botanical Garden during normal business hours (8 AM - 5 PM). Email garden@fit.edu to arrange for a Garden Guide.

Runner Notes

The concrete paths aren't exactly level (especially over the bridges that cross Crane Creek), so jogging could be perilous if you don't pay attention.

Description

The main trails are concrete with small bridges over the streams. However, there are many unmarked paths (and trails in development) that lead to the different gardens and Crane Creek. Signage is sparse so a visit to the Evans Library (located adjacent to the garden’s south entrance) prior to your visit may be necessary by those curious.

Flora & Fauna

The Florida Tech Botanical Garden contains more than 200 palms, bamboos, and other rare and common botanical specimens.

History & Background

Florida Tech acquired the first 40 acres of its present campus fronting on Country Club Road through a donation by the University of Melbourne in 1960. The main trail has been named the Dent Smith Trail in honor of the founder of the Palm Society, a worldwide organization primarily engaged in the study of the palm family.